Department of Public Works (DPW) Director William O. Howland, Jr., will honor the District’s public works employees during National Public Works Week, observed this year from May 18 to May 24, 2008.

National Public Works Week is observed each year during the third full week of May. It was established by the American Public Works Association to heighten awareness and appreciation for public works employees.

“Without the service of the dedicated workers who clean our streets and alleys; repair our roads; collect and process our solid and recycling waste; keep the roads clear of snow; enforce parking; and more, this city could not function,” said Howland. “These are tough jobs that require a lot of personal sacrifice and I’m asking District residents, workers, and visitors to join me today to thank them for the work that they do.”

Throughout the week, Director Howland will personally greet and thank each DPW employee during a series of special events. DPW will culminate the week by offering the metropolitan area’s first free, weekly document shredding service for residents, to be located at the Benning Road Trash Transfer Station at 3200 Benning Road, NE.  The drop-off site will be open Saturdays, except holidays, from 8 am to 3 pm.

For more information about Public Works Week events in the District, please contact Linda Grant at
(202) 671-2375.